England manager Thomas Tuchel has addressed his selection policy for full-backs following confirmation that Reece James will miss the upcoming World Cup match against Panama. James, a Chelsea right-back, reported a hamstring issue after England’s goalless draw against Ghana and has not travelled with the squad to New Jersey for the final Group L fixture.
Despite the setback, Tuchel expressed confidence that James could still feature later in the tournament. James is currently undergoing an accelerated rehabilitation programme, with Tuchel stating a strong belief in his availability for subsequent matches. However, reports suggest James is a significant doubt for the start of the knockout stages, even though England has already secured a place in the last-32.
Injury Concerns and Squad Depth
The injury to James, coupled with a calf issue that led to Tino Livramento’s early departure from the United States, has brought Tuchel’s decision to include only three recognised full-backs in the squad under scrutiny. The genuine full-backs initially selected were Djed Spence, James, and Livramento.
Other players in the squad who can cover full-back positions include Nico O’Reilly, who played left-back for Manchester City last season but is primarily a midfielder, and Dan Burn, a recognised centre-back who has also played at left-back. For the right-back role, alternative options considered by Tuchel include Spence and central defenders Jarell Quansah and Ezri Konsa.
Tuchel defended his selections, stating, “I selected the team, so I’m very happy with everything with the characteristic of the players and strengths that they give us.” He acknowledged the desire to have all key players available but emphasised the team’s ability to find solutions during the tournament. Both James and Livramento have a history of injuries, a factor that has led to questions regarding their inclusion in the squad.
James missed both training sessions following the match against Ghana and was seen following an individual programme indoors during Friday’s session in Kansas City. His absence from the pitch with his teammates indicates the severity of his hamstring tightness.
Team Availability for Panama Match
In more positive news for England, Tuchel confirmed the availability of Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Elliot Anderson for the match against Panama. Rice and Anderson had missed training on Thursday due to a calf issue and a glute problem, respectively, but both returned to training on Friday. Rice’s calf knock was reportedly deemed to require rest, and the midfielder is expected to be available for the game.
Saka is also ready to start the match after being brought on as a substitute in the first two games due to a long-term Achilles tendinitis complaint. While Rice is expected to be available, his potential start remains to be seen, as he risks suspension for the last-32 match if he receives another booking, having already been cautioned against Ghana.
Meanwhile, at Panama’s training session, an altercation occurred between players Cecilio Waterman and Jose Luis Rodriguez, who had to be separated by teammates. Panama coach Thomas Christiansen viewed this incident positively, suggesting it indicated the team’s vitality and eagerness to perform well and secure a starting position.
England aims to secure the top spot in Group L with a victory over Panama, which would allow them to plan their route through the knockout stages of the competition.
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Source: bbc.com
As Latest News UK's Sports Reporter, Hannah Whitfield reports on tennis, cricket and athletics for readers across the country. She built her name covering the county circuit and Team GB at two Commonwealth Games. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from Loughborough University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Hannah lives in Bristol, where she plays club tennis and coaches a junior side. “Sport is at its best when you let the athletes tell the story.”